Umatilla

High Schools - Lake & Sumter: How we scout them

OUTLOOK: New coach likes the caliber of athletes at Umatilla. Offensive line big and strong and is key element.

PLAYERS TO WATCH: RB/LB Brett Comenzo, 5-10, 220, Sr. - Has the size to be key figure in offensive backfield; RB/LB Jasper Maples, 6-4, 215, Sr. - He, too, will be hard to miss coming out of the backfield with his great size and track hurdler's speed; OL Jeremiah Stynchcomb, 6-2, 225, Sr. - Gives the Bulldogs size and experience on the line; OL/DL Nick Kerr, 6-2, 265, Jr. - His size will certainly be an asset on the line; OL/DL Ben Burr, 6-3, 275, Sr. - Another massive lineman for the Bulldogs.

COACH: Tim Smith, 1st season.

REWIND: 1-8 in 1998. Bulldogs did pull something of an upset in beating South Lake for their only victory. Early-season loss of quarterback Craig Davis put crimp in season.

FAST FORWARD: There is plenty of size with Kerr, Burr and Stynchcomb. But total roster is slightly down, which means staying healthy is a must. Smith wants to develop winning attitude quickly to get kids to believe in what he is doing. Big jump in class for the Bulldogs now playing county rivals Eustis, Mount Dora and Tavares in district as well as last year's district guns South Sumter and Wildwood. The assignment just might be too tough this year.